The study of human biological rhythms is a fascinating field that has yielded many important information and insights. One key factor of the human sleep – wake cycle is the regulated exposure to light and darkness. Light is deemed to stimulate the special center in the brain called Suprachiasmatic nucleus or SCN, signaling it to control specific hormones, body temperature and especially the sleep – wake pattern. The SCN is a clump of nerve cells in the base of the brain in a region called hypothalamus. It also regulates other vital control centers. But more specifically, the SCN suspends the release of hormones such as melatonin which is closely interrelated with sleep onset. As a result, the suprachiasmatic nucleus is often referred to as the “master clock”.

Melatonin is produced and released into the blood stream by the pineal gland once it is stimulated by the SCN. This hormone has a mild sleep-inducing effect and functions as a biological sleep – wake cue. It is commonly referred to as the “Dracula of Hormones” because it is only evidently produced during dark. High level of melatonin in the blood causes an individual to feel drowsy and less alert. It has been discovered that melatonin levels are maintained elevated for 12 hours, as if all through out the night. Levels of melatonin are hardly measurable during the day. Melatonin release during dark differs from person to person. Studies show that melatonin production is interrelated to age. Generally, children produce more melatonin than adults. In fact, elders produce lesser melatonin. This explains why they have problems with sleep onset and staying asleep. Young adults and middle – aged ones produce approximately 5 to 25 mcg of melatonin every night.

According to clinical studies, use of melatonin remarkably facilitates sleep onset and reduces the likelihood of sleep interruptions. Keep in mind that melatonin is not responsible for controlling sleep but only its onset or the feeling of sleepiness. If it does, people may not be able to sleep during broad daylight or cannot stay awake during the dark night. But as evidenced, people have longer and deeper sleep during the night because melatonin production during this time is high.

Melatonin is found in dietary foods and may also come in supplements which are available in the market. It is sold as a dietary supplement, not as a drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration or FDA. So far, this is the only hormone accessible over – the – counter that is why many are already using this. To take the full benefit of melatonin, the correct dosage and timing is a key aspect. Improper timing of melatonin supplementation may retune the biological clock in an undesirable manner.

Eventually, since melatonin is classified as a dietary supplement only and not a drug, we recommend to consult your doctor before use. Your health record, familial history and other drugs or supplements taken must also be carefully reviewed if you are planning to take melatonin. Nevertheless, if your work needs alertness for safety such as pilots, drivers or railroaders, machine operators and the like, melatonin must be taken under a physician’s supervision.

Look to your local or internet vitamin store for melatonin in 1mg, 2mg, and 5mg dosages. Each person needs a different amount to maintain good sleep. Always buy name brands like Source Naturals to ensure quality of what you buy to maintain good sleep patterns.

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Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: Melatonin, Natural Sleep Aid, Stay Asleep longer with Melatonin